New kids play area will be a natural
A NEW play facility made from natural materials will be created in the Spodden Valley area.
Rossendale Borough Council are working alongside Whitworth Town Council, local residents and Community Interest Company Proffitts – Investing in Communities on a project to improve the play provision in Whitworth.
Several sites were considered and residents, councillors and local groups consulted before Spodden Valley was chosen.
The play area, funded by the local councils and Viridor Credits, involves creating an entirely new play space with a strong natural play element, very different from traditional facilities.
The materials used in its creation will focus on natural materials, such as rope, wood, boulders and sensory planting schemes.
David McChesney, from Rossendale Borough Council, said: “The space is being designed in a way that encourages children and families to explore the wider nature reserve and really make the most of this beautiful area.”
The council are also working with Lancashire Wildlife Trust ecologists who are conducting biodiversity, wildlife, bat and tree surveys to ensure that nothing in the design has any negative effects on the surroundings.
It is hoped that the plans will enhance the wildlife and natural space instead as planned works will tackle areas of overgrowth, path improvements, signage and the removal of damaging patches of Japanese Knotweed and Himalayan Balsam.
Melanie Hearn, Town Clerk, said: “After everything that local families have been through over the last 12 months, it’s exciting to be able to provide a facility that will allow residents of all ages, not just the children, a chance to spend more time outdoors and connect more with both other people, and with nature too.”